Why Start New Year With A Grateful Heart Mantra

Every evening, as I walk through Central Park surrounded by enthusiastic crowds racing to test their fitness, my attention is drawn to a blind boy sitting under a tree with a pug. His innocent face, though contorted, exudes serenity. Passersby give polite glances, cuddle the dog, but rarely bothers to speak to the child. If we close our eyes and imagine life as a blind person, it seems dull and bland. However, eyes are not just organs of sight; they are also windows to our imagination, creativity, and understanding of the world. Through our eyes, we experience the world in all its vibrant colors, textures, and complexities. They are the instruments that allow us to navigate, explore, and make sense of our surroundings.

As I strike up a conversation with the child, I realise that my perception of his limitations is misplaced. In his eyes, he is capable, confident, and happy. He doesn't need eyes to see; he has a vision. He takes pride in his independence, proudly proclaiming how he cares for his dog. His attitude is a poignant reminder that happiness is not derived from physical abilities, but from a deeper sense of purpose and contentment. Here, I see a 12-year-old so content with the world that he transforms my relationship with it. In a world where we're constantly striving to be more – more successful, more attractive, more accomplished – his presence is a powerful reminder to appreciate what truly matters.

Grateful heart, grateful life

Christmas has arrived, bringing with it a sumptuous feast of cakes, puddings, pies, and all the trimmings. Amidst this season of abundance, we're reminded of the countless blessings in our lives. Yet, instead of gratitude, we often find ourselves caught up in the pursuit of upgrades and excess. We are chasing the next milestone, the nest status symbol, and the next thrill. 

In the spirit of the season, we're compelled to ask: How many of us are truly content with what we have? Do we appreciate the simple joys, or are we forever chasing something more, something better? 

Gratitude is indeed gold, and it begins with being thankful for the most intimate and constant companion we have – our body. In a world where the beauty and wellness industries perpetuate the notion that we're never good enough, it's revolutionary to choose self-acceptance and gratitude. For years, I've struggled with my own body image, always feeling like I'm five kilograms away from my ideal weight, and self-conscious about my stretch marks and midsection. 

But today, I choose to see things differently. I'm grateful to the universe for blessing me with stretch marks, a reminder of the precious journey to motherhood that I'd waited for so long. No matter how amazing your life choices and decisions are, there will always be that nagging voice in your head saying, "You could've done better, buddy!" And to make matters worse, social media is like that one friend who just won't stop bragging.

LinkedIn is all like, "Hey, look at XYZ crushing it in his dream job!" Meanwhile, Instagram is over here flaunting everyone's exotic vacations and flawless avocado toast. It is like, hello! Can't we all just have a mediocre Monday morning for once? But no, the internet is determined to make us feel like we're stuck in some kind of rut. So, here's a toast to embracing our imperfect lives and making peace with our choices. Here’s a toast to be thankful for every inch of our existence.

As 2024 draws to a close, let's wrap up the year with a heart full of gratitude. We have a roof over our heads, three meals a day, and all the necessities for a comfortable existence. Despite this, it's easy to get caught up in comparisons and dissatisfaction. But as we stand on the threshold of a new year, let's make a conscious choice to prioritise gratitude. 

Let's acknowledge that things could have been worse and express appreciation for what we have. By choosing gratitude, we can break free from the cycle of discontentment and cultivate a positive mindset. As we step into 2025, let's carry the spirit of gratitude with us, and may it guide us toward a brighter, more fulfilling year ahead.

Views expressed by the author are their own